Coming off the F6 Freeway at the Helensburgh exit is the start of the Northern Illawarra. First stop is historic Helensburgh (turn left at the big roundabout, past the Golf Driving Range, ph 4294 3456 and Sunrise Nursery, ph 4294 1307, and next right into Parkes Street).
Helensburgh has many services to offer. There are cafes including award-winner R&R Cafe (ph 4294 4929) and Bad Influence Cafe (ph 4294 3424), Helensburgh Petroleum on Parkes St (ph 4294 1045), clothing stores including Ambience at Shop 2/41-43 Walker St (ph 4294 4017) and next door Essential Surf & Skate (ph 4294 2778), and real estate agents including Ray White (ph 4294 7000) and LJ Hooker (ph 4294 9800). Don’t miss Helensburgh Worker’s Sport & Social Club (ph 4294 1122).
If you want to see the Northern Illawarra in style, jump on a Harley with Just Cruisin’ Motorcycle Tours (ph 0414 942 598).
Back at the big roundabout, head towards Darkes Forest and visit the Riding Ranch (ph 4294 3441), where you can join a trail ride or have a riding lesson.
Follow the signs to Stanwell Park and on the left there is the walk to Kelly’s Falls. The easy 1km walk begins from a spot opposite the junction of Stonehaven Road and Lawrence Hargrave Drive. After reaching the falls you can continue to a viewing platform.
Otford is only a few minutes on from Helensburgh. There you can explore the beautiful countryside of the Northern Illawarra on horseback at Otford Farm Trail Rides, Lloyd Place (ph 1800 642 749), catering for all levels of riders. Make your way to the top of Domville Road to Lady Wakehurst Drive and visit the Otford Pantry for delicious homemade apple pies (ph 4294 1243).
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